I’ve heard good things about The Idea Festival, my friend Doug Stevenson has been and he reports an interesting mix of content, and, a real sense of fun. This would appear to be more of an innovation event on the surface, but when you discuss ideas, it’s a creative thing isn’t it? Speakers from last year were heavy on arts and design at first glance — and nothing wrong with that.

American Creativity Association, New England, July 30th & Philadelphia, September 22, 23

Fall event is at Drexel University. According to the ACA website they are splitting up their conferences into regional events to make them more affordable. Brilliant idea, by doing so they enable more people to attend, from a wider range of people and incomes. I’m not sure if the New England location is settled yet, but keep an eye on their website.

The Next Idea Creativity Conference, New Lebanon New York, October 22-24

A lot of creativity leaders and speakers go to this conference, an endorsement. It’s held at a Yoga Center up in the Catskills, so, convenient to NYC. Organizers are the venerable creativity thought leaders Andre and Judy de Zanger of the Creativity Institute. Andre was the firsts person I ever heard speak about the Zen of creativity (1985). So, think Zen, and get yourself to Next.